Building on the success of EFL Week of Action, the EFL Community Weekend aims to show the breadth and depth of Club Community work during these weekends to match-going fans across the league.
On Saturday at Blackpool FC’s home game against Crawley Town, Blackpool FC Community Trust and the Club highlighted members of our community who have been awarded ‘Community Hero’ for their support.
As a small thanks for their hard work, we invited them to attend Saturday’s fixture in the Matthews Suite as part of the Club’s hospitality offering.
Congratulations to:
Dan Matthews
Dan has been integral within female youth football at Blackpool FC Community Trust this year. After responding to an advert for volunteer coaches, he saw an opportunity to return to the game and share his experience from Academy-level football. Despite running his own business and managing family commitments, he has taken on both paid and voluntary coaching roles, demonstrating real dedication to developing local players across different age groups.
He started volunteering with the Blackpool FC Girls Under 15s grassroots team before taking on an additional voluntary coaching role with Blackpool FC Ladies Reserves. He also regularly supports the Blackpool FC Girls U14s coaches, ensuring those young players receive even more guidance to help them develop and progress.
Dan’s hard work and coaching ability led to a paid role in our FA Girls’ Emerging Talent Centre, coaching the Blackpool FC U16s ETC group. His calm approach, expertise, and focus on player development have made him a valued member of the team. He helps our girls improve their skills, build confidence, and progress through the football pathway.
Since joining us, Dan has embarked on his UEFA B Licence, equipping himself with the skills to inspire and support the next generation of female footballers. His commitment to developing young players makes him a key part of Blackpool FC Community Trust.
Nicola Ellis and Helen Bright
Blackpool FC Community Trust (BFCCT) has worked closely with Helen and Nicola to deliver Macmillan awareness sessions and engage directly with individuals affected by cancer. Their collaboration has extended BFCCT’s reach, ensuring more people in the community can access vital information on cancer symptoms, early detection, and available support services. By integrating their expertise into BFCCT’s Walking Football, Cancer Prehab, and Cancer Awareness programmes, they have contributed to improving health awareness and support for participants.
Helen and Nicola have been instrumental in increasing cancer awareness within Blackpool. Their commitment to education and support has encouraged many individuals to seek medical advice and adopt healthier lifestyles. They have also strengthened links between BFCCT and local healthcare providers, including NHS staff at Victoria Hospital, fostering a more coordinated approach to cancer support.
Beyond providing information, Helen and Nicola offer practical and emotional support to those affected by cancer, ensuring individuals feel informed, reassured, and connected to essential resources. Their contribution has had a meaningful impact on the community.
Declan Hynes
Declan Hynes, a second-year degree student at Blackpool FC Sports College, has transformed his personal and professional growth through his involvement with Blackpool FC Community Trust (BFCCT). Since 2018, Declan has been part of the Trust, but this academic year, his commitment has reached new heights. Volunteering with the Health and Wellbeing team, he now helps deliver Fit2Go and Unstoppable sessions in three schools weekly. This hands-on experience has not only boosted his confidence and leadership skills but also reinforced his passion for making a difference in young people’s lives.
Declan’s dedication to the Trust’s programmes has had a profound effect on the children he supports. He encourages healthier lifestyles and positive mental well-being through engaging classroom and practical activities. Teachers and staff have praised his ability to connect with pupils, motivating them to participate and develop new skills. His reliability, enthusiasm, and natural rapport with young learners make him an invaluable asset to the team.
Declan’s willingness to step up and take on new responsibilities exemplifies the core values of BFCCT. From a student to a mentor, he has grown into a role model for young people in Blackpool.
For more information about Blackpool FC Community Trust visit: www.bfcct.co.uk, call: 01253 348691 or follow BFCCT on social media.
